Columbine

Columbines, beloved by hummingbirds, are perfect for cut flowers and have a long season of bloom. Midsize spurred flowers with complex form bloom on wiry stems, floating above a rosette of compound leaves. This perennial grows single, double, and even triple flowers in red, yellow, blue, white, pink, purple, or a combination.

How to grow: Columbines are easy to grow in fertile, well-drained garden soil, in full sun or partial shade. Many types live for only a few years, so allow a few plants to self-sow for continued stock. For neatness, cut back stalks after plants finish flowering.

Propagation: From seed.

Uses: Columbines are excellent in beds and borders. Dwarf forms are good for rock gardens.

Hosta ventricosa usually comes true from seed. It has heart-shaped leaves that may be solid or variegated. Like most hostas it grows relatively quickly and is easy to care for. Find out about this garden perennial.

Toad lilies are, contrary to their name, very attractive perennials with purple-spotted, creamy white flowers that bloom in late September or October. They prefer shade and must be protected against frost.